SOUTH OZONE PARK, Queens — A chaotic scene unfolded in a residential Queens neighborhood Thursday afternoon as a massive explosion and 5-alarm fire leveled one home and severely damaged another, leaving nearly a dozen people—including eight members of the NYPD—hospitalized.
The incident began as a routine response to a domestic dispute but quickly escalated into a major disaster that drew over 200 firefighters to the scene.
Explosion During Police Response
According to the NYPD, officers were dispatched to a home on 130th Street in South Ozone Park following a call regarding a dispute. As officers were attempting to gain entry into the residence to investigate the situation, a massive explosion occurred inside.
The force of the blast was so powerful that it caused one of the buildings to structurally collapse. Flames immediately erupted, fueled by the debris, and quickly spread to an adjacent home. The FDNY eventually raised the response to a fifth alarm as smoke became visible from miles away across Queens.
Casualties and Injuries
Emergency responders worked frantically to evacuate neighboring homes and treat the wounded. As of Thursday evening, the injury toll includes:
- 8 NYPD Officers: Seven officers and one sergeant were transported to local hospitals. Fortunately, all are reported to be in stable condition.
- 2 Civilians: Two residents were treated for injuries; officials say they are expected to recover.
The FDNY confirmed that all residents of the primary building where the fire originated have been accounted for. The cause of the initial explosion remains under investigation, though fire marshals are on the scene to determine if a gas leak or other accelerants played a role.
Neighborhood on Lockdown
The block on 130th Street remains cordoned off as utility crews and structural engineers assess the stability of the surrounding buildings. Residents in South Ozone Park reported hearing a “thunderous boom” that shook windows blocks away before the sky turned black with smoke.
One building has been declared a total loss due to the collapse, and the secondary building sustained heavy fire and water damage. The FDNY is expected to remain on-site throughout the night to monitor for “hot spots” in the rubble.
